Distribution and management of content from a multi-tier content distribution system

ABSTRACT

A multi-tier content distribution system includes a first repository, a second repository, and a third repository from which to distribute content. The first repository serves as a first choice from which to distribute requested content to a requesting party. If the requested content is not available from the first repository, the multi-tier content distribution system attempts retrieval and distribution of the requested content from the second repository, which serves as a backup resource to the first repository. If the requested content is not available from the second repository, the multi-tier content distribution system attempts retrieval and distribution of the requested content from the third repository, which serves as a backup resource to the second repository. The multi-tier content distribution system includes a content management resource operable to selectively populate the second repository with pre-formatted content retrieved from the third repository.

BACKGROUND

Conventional content distribution resources sometimes provide backupstorage resources with respect to a primary repository because arespective primary repository is limited in capacity. Upon receiving arequest for content, in response to detecting that the requested contentis not available from the primary repository, a conventional contentdistribution system may attempt to retrieve and deliver the requestedcontent from a backup storage resource and or video processor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Unfortunately, conventional content distribution resources are prone toproviding inefficient delivery of content. For example, any amount ofcontent can be stored in the backup storage resource. However,distribution from the backup storage resource typically requiressubstantial processing and formatting prior to distribution.Accordingly, retrieval of content from a conventional contentdistribution system is prone to substantial delays when content isretrieved from a backup storage resource as opposed to a primaryrepository that stores pre-formatted content for delivery.

Embodiments herein include a novel multi-tier content distributionsystem for more efficient and/or more expedient delivery of content tomultiple communication devices in a network environment.

More specifically, according to one embodiment, a multi-tier contentdistribution system includes a first repository, a second repository,and a third repository from which to distribute content. Duringoperation, the first repository in the multi-tier content distributionsystem serves as a first choice from which to distribute requestedcontent to a requesting party. If the requested content is not availablefrom the first repository, the multi-tier content distribution systemattempts retrieval and distribution of the requested content from thesecond repository, which serves as a second choice from which todistribute the requested content. Thus, the second repository serves asa backup resource with respect to the first repository. Further, if therequested content is not available from the second repository, themulti-tier content distribution system attempts retrieval anddistribution of the requested content from the third repository, whichserves as a backup resource to the second repository.

In one embodiment, the multi-tier content distribution system includesone or more access control resources operable to attempt retrieval ofrequested content in accordance with a predefined access order asdiscussed above. For example, in response to receiving a request forcontent, the access control resource first attempts to retrieve therequested content from the first repository and, if the requestedcontent is unavailable from the first repository, the access controlresource (second) attempts to retrieve the requested content from thesecond repository and, if the request content is unavailable from thesecond repository, the access control resource (third) attempts toretrieve the requested content from the third repository. Thus,embodiments herein include a trial and error way of retrieving anddistributing content.

Note that the multi-tier content distribution system as described hereincan include any number of repositories. The discussed embodiments ofincluding a first repository, a second repository, and a thirdrepository are shown by way of non-limiting example for illustrativepurposes.

In accordance with further embodiments, note that the third repositorycan be configured to store many or all available titles of content, eachof which require processing and formatting prior to distribution torespective users operating communication devices. Recall that the firstrepository stores first content and the second repository stores secondcontent. By way of non-limiting example, the third repository can beconfigured to store a copy of first content stored in the firstrepository and a copy of second content stored in the second repository.However, as previously discussed, the multi-tier content distributionsystem attempts retrieval of the content from the first repository aswell as from the second repository prior to falling back on distributionof requested content from the third repository.

In still further embodiments, the content stored in the first repositoryand the second repository includes pre-formatted content for immediatedistribution to requesting client devices. Distribution of the contentfrom the third repository is less desirable than distribution from thefirst repository or the second repository because the content in thethird repository requires formatting (processing) before such content isavailable for retrieval by the communication devices. Thus, delivery ofrespective content from the third repository may be delayed incomparison to delivery of content from the first repository or thesecond repository.

To provide more efficient delivery of content to the communicationdevices from the multiple repositories, the multi-tier contentdistribution system includes a content management resource operable toselectively populate the second repository with pre-formatted contentderived from the content stored in the third repository.

In accordance with further embodiments, the multi-tier contentdistribution system or other suitable resource keeps track of orreceives content consumption information indicating a particular titleof content popularly retrieved from the third repository because suchcontent is not stored in the first repository or the second repository.In accordance with constantly updated content consumption informationindicating trending content consumption, most popular contentconsumption, expected content consumption, etc., the content managementresource initiates updating the second repository to include specifiedtitles of content available from the third repository.

Thus, in one embodiment, depending on a trend or expected trend of usersretrieving portions of content stored in the third repository, thecontent management resource initiates storage of a copy of the popularlyretrieved content from the third repository to the second repository.Based on such operations of updating the content in the secondrepository, instead of having to retrieve the identified more popularcontent from the third repository, the client devices are able toretrieve the popular content from the second repository.

In accordance with further embodiments, as previously discussed, thecontent management resource (and/or corresponding video packagerresource) pre-formats the portions of content prior to storage in thesecond repository. Pre-formatting of the content in the secondrepository (and/or first repository if desired) supports or provides forimmediate on-demand distribution to retrieving client devices. Servicingof a respective request from the third repository requires formattingprior to distribution of such content to a respective requested.Accordingly, distribution from the third repository is susceptible todelays in comparison to distribution of content from the firstrepository and the second repository; distribution of content from thesecond repository eliminates such delays because the content is alreadyformatted (such as in multiple segments) for distribution.

In accordance with yet further embodiments, the multi-tier contentdistribution system or other suitable resource produces content accessinformation (such as a generated manifest file) indicating an order inwhich to sequentially retrieve the multiple retrievable segments for aparticular title of content stored in the second repository. In otherwords, the content management resource or other suitable resource can beconfigured to produce content access information (manifest file)indicating an order in which to sequentially retrieve the multipleretrievable segments to playback a corresponding title of content suchas video of moving images and corresponding sound. In such an instance,a communication device retrieves the content access information and thenuses the content access information to retrieve segments of theparticular title of content from the second repository.

As previously discussed, over time, the most popular content consumed byrespective client devices typically changes. To accommodate the changein content consumption demands for viewing different titles of content,the content management resource as described herein is operable toreplace old content stored in the second repository with new content.For example, assume that a first title of content currently stored inthe second repository becomes less popular than a second title ofcontent commonly stored and retrieved from the third repository. In suchan instance, the content management resource initiates replacement ofthe first title of content in the second repository with the morepopular second title of content.

In this manner, old titles of content that are less often requested forviewing are replaced with newer titles that are more often requested orexpected to be requested for viewing by respective users.

These and other more specific embodiments are disclosed in more detailbelow.

Any of the resources as discussed herein can include one or morecomputerized devices, mobile communication devices, servers, basestations, wireless communication equipment, communication managementsystems, workstations, handheld or laptop computers, or the like tocarry out and/or support any or all of the method operations disclosedherein. In other words, one or more computerized devices or processorscan be programmed and/or configured to operate as explained herein tocarry out the different embodiments as described herein.

Yet other embodiments herein include software programs to perform thesteps and operations summarized above and disclosed in detail below. Onesuch embodiment comprises a computer program product including anon-transitory computer-readable storage medium (i.e., any computerreadable hardware storage medium) on which software instructions areencoded for subsequent execution. The instructions, when executed in acomputerized device (hardware) having a processor, program and/or causethe processor (hardware) to perform the operations disclosed herein.Such arrangements are typically provided as software, code,instructions, and/or other data (e.g., data structures) arranged orencoded on a non-transitory computer readable storage medium such as anoptical medium (e.g., CD-ROM), floppy disk, hard disk, memory stick,memory device, etc., or other a medium such as firmware in one or moreROM, RAM, PROM, etc., or as an Application Specific Integrated Circuit(ASIC), etc. The software or firmware or other such configurations canbe installed onto a computerized device to cause the computerized deviceto perform the techniques explained herein.

Accordingly, embodiments herein are directed to a method, system,computer program product, etc., that supports operations as discussedherein.

One embodiment includes a computer readable storage medium and/or systemhaving instructions stored thereon to facilitate distribution of contentform a multi-tier content distribution system. The instructions, whenexecuted by computer processor hardware, cause the computer processorhardware (such as one or more processor devices) to: receive popularityinformation indicating content to retrieve and store in a firstsupplemental repository, the first supplemental repository being abackup resource from which to distribute content not stored in a primaryrepository; as specified by the popularity information, communicate witha server resource to retrieve a copy of the content; store the retrievedcopy of the content in the first supplemental repository fordistribution to subscribers; and in accordance with an access order ofdistributing the content to the subscribers, providing access to thecopy of content from the first supplemental repository.

Another embodiment includes a computer readable storage medium and/orsystem having instructions stored thereon to facilitate remote controlof a remote media system. The instructions, when executed by computerprocessor hardware, cause the computer processor hardware (such as oneor more processor devices) to: store first content in a first repositoryfor distribution; store second content in a second repository fordistribution, the second repository being a backup distribution resourcewith respect to the first repository; store third content in a thirdrepository, the third repository being a backup distribution resourcewith respect to the second repository; and selectively populate thesecond repository with the second content, the second content includingselected portions of the third content stored in the third repository.

The ordering of the steps above has been added for clarity sake. Notethat any of the processing steps as discussed herein can be performed inany suitable order.

Other embodiments of the present disclosure include software programsand/or respective hardware to perform any of the method embodiment stepsand operations summarized above and disclosed in detail below.

It is to be understood that the system, method, apparatus, instructionson computer readable storage media, etc., as discussed herein also canbe embodied strictly as a software program, firmware, as a hybrid ofsoftware, hardware and/or firmware, or as hardware alone such as withina processor (hardware or software), or within an operating system or awithin a software application.

As discussed herein, techniques herein are well suited for use in thedistributing content from a multi-tier content distribution system.However, it should be noted that embodiments herein are not limited touse in such applications and that the techniques discussed herein arewell suited for other applications as well.

Additionally, note that although each of the different features,techniques, configurations, etc., herein may be discussed in differentplaces of this disclosure, it is intended, where suitable, that each ofthe concepts can optionally be executed independently of each other orin combination with each other. Accordingly, the one or more presentinventions as described herein can be embodied and viewed in manydifferent ways.

Also, note that this preliminary discussion of embodiments hereinpurposefully does not specify every embodiment and/or incrementallynovel aspect of the present disclosure or claimed invention(s). Instead,this brief description only presents general embodiments andcorresponding points of novelty over conventional techniques. Foradditional details and/or possible perspectives (permutations) of theinvention(s), the reader is directed to the Detailed Description sectionand corresponding figures of the present disclosure as further discussedbelow.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an example diagram illustrating a multi-tier contentdistribution system and storage of content in multiple respectiverepositories according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 2 is an example diagram illustrating updating of content in a tierof the multi-tier content distribution system based on popularityinformation according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 3 is a more specific example diagram illustrating a functionalblock diagram of a multi-tier content distribution system anddistribution of content according to embodiments herein.

FIG. 4 is an example timing diagram illustrating operations ofretrieving content from the multi-tier content distribution system anddistribution to multiple requesting communication devices according toembodiments herein.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example computer architecture toexecute operations according to embodiments herein.

FIGS. 6-8 are example diagrams illustrating methods of distributingcontent from a multi-tier content distribution system according toembodiments herein.

The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of theinvention will be apparent from the following more particulardescription of preferred embodiments herein, as illustrated in theaccompanying drawings in which like reference characters refer to thesame parts throughout the different views. The drawings are notnecessarily to scale, with emphasis instead being placed uponillustrating the embodiments, principles, concepts, etc.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Now, more specifically, FIG. 1 is an example diagram illustrating afunctional block diagram of hardware/software resources associated witha multi-tier content distribution system according to embodimentsherein.

As shown, multi-tier content distribution system 120 resides in networkenvironment 100 and facilitates distribution of content (such as video,images, audio, information, data, etc.) over network 190 to one or morecommunication devices 150.

Communication devices 150 (such as client devices) include communicationdevice 150-1, communication device 150-2, communication device 150-3,etc. Each of the communication devices 150 (including respectivehardware, software, firmware, etc.) is operable to communicate overnetwork 190 to retrieve content from multi-tier content distributionsystem 100.

Note that network 190 can include any suitable hardware and softwareresources facilitating communications between the communication session150 and the multi-tier content distribution system 120. For example,network 190 can include any combination of one or more fiber opticcables, coaxial cable, wireless communication links, Internetconnections, etc., to provide connectivity between the communicationdevices 150 and the multi-tier content distribution system 120.

In this example embodiment, multi-tier content distribution system 120includes a first repository 181, a second repository 182, and a thirdrepository 183 from which to distribute content to communication devices150. Each of the repositories can be co-located or disparately locatedwith respect to each other.

Note that inclusion of three repositories (a first repository 181,second repository 182, and a third repository 183) is shown by way ofnon-limiting example only; the multi-tier content distribution systemcan include any number of repositories.

As shown in this example embodiment, each of the repositories storesdifferent content available for retrieval by the respective users ofcommunication devices 150.

For example, repository 181 stores content A, content B, and content C,and content D, etc.

Repository 182 stores content U, content V, content W, content X, andcontent Z. Repository 183 stores all or a large amount of availablecontent such as content A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, . . . , U, V, W, X, Y,and Z,

In one embodiment, the third repository 183 stores many or all availabletitles of content available from a cable network service provider fordistribution via video on demand services. The users of thecommunication devices 150 can be notified of available content from themulti-tier content distribution system 120 via a respective contentguide.

Note that the content stored in repository 183 may require formatting inorder to distribute to respective users operating communication devices.By way of non-limiting example, the third repository 183 can beconfigured to store a copy of content stored in the first repository 181and a copy of the content stored in the second repository 182. However,as previously discussed, the multi-tier content distribution system 120attempts retrieval of the content from the first repository 181 and thenthe second repository 182 prior to falling back on distribution ofrequested content from the third repository 183. Accordingly, thecontent packager resource 143 may be a last resort from which todistribute content.

Multi-tier content distribution system 120 further includes contentdistribution resource 141, mid-tier content server 142, and contentpackager resource 143. Such resources provide access to the differentrepositories. For example, content distribution resource 141 providesaccess to repository 181 and corresponding content. Mid-tier contentserver 142 provides access to repository 182 and corresponding content.Content packager resource 143 provides access to corresponding contentstored in repository 183.

Note that the distribution of content as previously discussed is shownby way of non-limiting example only. In yet further embodiments, contentdistribution resource 141 is operable to directly access repository 182(as opposed to forwarding a respective request for content to mid-tiercontent server 142) in order to retrieve and distribute content tocorresponding client devices 150. As previously discussed, therepository 182 may be co-located with repository 181.

In accordance with further embodiments, during operation, the firstrepository 181 serves as a first choice from which to distributerequested content to a requesting party. For example, on behalf of arespective user operating communication device 150-1, assume that thecommunication device 150-1 forwards a request over network 190 forretrieval of content G from the multi-tier content distribution system120.

In this instance, the content distribution resource 141 first determinesif the requested content G is stored in repository 181. Because contentG is not stored in repository 181, the content distribution resource 141attempts retrieval and distribution of the requested content G from thesecond repository 182, which serves as a second choice from which todistribute the requested content G. Thus, the second repository 182serves as a backup resource with respect to the first repository 181.

Assume further in this example that content G is not stored in therepository 182. In such an instance, the mid-tier content server 141checks one or more supplemental repositories in addition to supplementalrepository 182 for the requested content G. After exhausting the storagepossibilities, and detecting that the requested content G is notavailable from any repositories managed and/or accessible by themid-tier content server 142, the mid-tier content server 142 attemptsretrieval and distribution of the requested content from the thirdrepository 183, which serves as a backup resource to the secondrepository 182.

More specifically, the content packager resource 143 that serves as thelast resort does have access to the requested content G as stored inrepository 183 in this instance. To service the request for content G,as its name suggests, the content packager resource 143 processes thecontent G stored in repository 183 into a suitable format fordistribution from content distribution resource 141 over network 190 tothe requesting user operating communication device 150-1.

In one embodiment, packaging of the content G (by content packagerresource 143) includes segmenting the content into different retrievableportions (such as into one or more data packets, portions, etc.) as wellas producing content access information indicating the differentretrievable segments associated with content G. The multi-tier contentdistribution system 120 (such as from content distribution resource 141)forwards the content access information associated with segmentedcontent G to communication device 150-1 in response to receiving therequest for content G.

Communication device 150-1 receives the content access information(manifest file) and then uses the content access information (specifyingan order of retrieving and playing back segments of retrievable content)to communicate with content distribution resource 141 to retrieve thesegment of content G. The content distribution resource 141 can beconfigured to distribute the requested segments of content G produced bycontent packager resource 143 over network 190 to the communicationdevice 150-1.

In one embodiment, the content access information associated withcontent G indicates to retrieve a first segment of the content G,followed by retrieval of a second segment of the content G, followed bya third segment of the content G, etc.

In such an instance, the communication device 150-1 initially transmitsa request for the first segment of content G2 content distributionresource 141. The content distribution resource 141 forwards the firstrequested segment of content G2 to the communication device 150-1. Thecommunication device 150-1 plays back the first segment of content forviewing by the respective user of the communication device. Further, inaccordance with the content access information associated with contentG, the communication device 150-1 then requests retrieval of a secondsegment of content G from the content distribution resource 141. Thecontent distribution resource 141 forwards the requested second segmentof content G2 to the communication device 150-1. The communicationdevice 151 plays back the second segment of content G for viewing by therespective user of the communication device, and so on. In this manner,the communication device 150-1 uses the manifest file (Information) toretrieve segments of content for sequential playback to a respectiveuser operating communication device.

In a manner, any of one or more client devices can be configured tocommunicate over network with the multi-tier content distribution system120 to retrieve stored content.

In accordance with further embodiments, the content stored anddistributed from repository 181 and repository 182 is pre-processed intosegmented portions and corresponding content access information prior toreceiving corresponding request for such content.

More specifically, the content stored in the first repository 181 andthe second repository 182 can include pre-formatted content forimmediate distribution to requesting client devices. In other words, thecontent stored in the first repository 181 and the second repository 182is already segmented and includes a respective manifest file in which toretrieve the respective segments of content.

Distribution of the content from the third repository 183 (from thecontent packager resource 143), as previously discussed, may be lessdesirable than distribution from the first repository 181 and the secondrepository 182 because the content in the third repository 183 requiresprocessing after receiving a request (because the repository 183 is nota transactional data store as are repository 181 and repository 182, andbecause content packager resource 143 provides content at a lowerperformance level) before such content is available for retrieval by thecommunication devices. Thus, delivery of respective content from thethird repository 183 is susceptible to being delayed in comparison todelivery of content from the first repository 181 or the secondrepository 182.

This disclosure includes the observation that repeated distribution ofthe same requested popular content from the content packager resource143 (if needed because the requested content is not stored in repository181 or repository 182) may be undesirable because distribution of thesame requested content may require repackaging for every requestinstance, resulting in duplicated processing. There is also an inherentdelay of transporting the requested content over the network fromcontent packager resource 143 to content distribution resource 141. Toprovide more efficient delivery of content to the communication devices150 from the multiple repositories associated with multi-tier contentdistribution system 120, the multi-tier content distribution system 120can be configured to include a content management resource 151 operableto selectively populate the second repository 182 with popular,pre-formatted content (or content expected to be popular based on priorhistory), commonly retrieved from the third repository 183.

More specifically, the multi-tier content distribution system 120 orother suitable resource produces performance information 145-1 (orcontent consumption information) indicating titles of content that areexpected to be popular or content that is known to be currentlypopularly retrieved from the content packager resource 143 and the thirdrepository. In accordance with further embodiments, the multi-tiercontent distribution system 120 or other suitable resource can produceperformance information 145-1 (or content consumption information)indicating titles of content that are expected to be popular or contentthat is known to be currently popular and distributed from contentpackager resource 143 and corresponding repository 183. Additionally,the multi-tier content distribution system 120 or other suitableresource can produce performance information 145-1 (or contentconsumption information) indicating titles of content that are expectedto be popular or content that is known to be currently popular anddistributed from content distribution resource 141 and/or mid-tiercontent server 142.

In accordance with constantly updated content consumption information(popularity information 145) indicating trending and most popularcontent, the content management resource 151 initiates updating of thesecond repository 182 to include specified titles of content availablefrom the third repository 183.

Thus, in one embodiment, depending on a trend of users (andcorresponding communication devices 150) retrieving portions of contentstored in the third repository 183, the content management resource 151initiates storage of a copy of the popularly retrieved content from thethird repository 183 to the second repository 182 or repository 181 ifsuitable.

As a more detailed discussion of embodiments, the content managementresource 151 derives and stores content in the second repository 182based on content stored in the third repository 183. Based on suchoperations of updating the content in the second repository 182, insteadof having to retrieve the more popular content from the third repository183, the multi-tier content distribution system 120 (on behalf of clientdevices 150) is able to retrieve and distribute the popular content fromthe second repository 182.

For example, in such an embodiment, the content management resource 151receives popularity information 145-1 at time T1 indicating that popularretrieved content from the content packager resource 143 includescontent U, content V, content W, content X, and content Z. The contentmanagement resource 151 communicates with content packager resource 143to store such content in repository 182 or repository 181 if suitable.

As previously discussed, the content packager resource 143 pre-formatsthe portions of content U, V, W, X and Z and produces respective contentaccess information prior to storage in the second repository 182.Storing of the pre-formatted content in the second repository 182(and/or first repository 181 if desired) as well as generation andstorage of respective content access information (such as manifest filefor each title of content) in repository 182 supports immediateon-demand distribution to retrieving client devices. In contrast, aspreviously discussed, in one embodiment, servicing of a respectiverequest from the third repository 183 by the content packager resource143 requires formatting prior to distribution of such content to arespective requested.

Assume that the communication device 150-2 requests retrieval of contentW. In a manner as previously discussed, the content distributionresource 141 learns that requested content W is not stored in repository181 and then forwards the request to the mid-tier content server 142which is able to immediately retrieve preprocessed content W andcorresponding content access information and forward it to the contentdistribution resource 141 for further distribution to the communicationdevice 150-2. The communication device 150-2 uses the received contentaccess information generated for content W to retrieve the differentsegments of content associated with content W stored in repository 182.

Accordingly, storage of popular content in repository 182 or repository181 eliminates delays because the popular content is already formatted(such as in multiple segments) for distribution.

FIG. 2 is an example diagram illustrating updating storage of contentaccording to embodiments herein.

As previously discussed, over time, the most popular content consumed byrespective client devices (communication device 150) may change asindicated by popularity information 145-2 generated at time T2.

In this instance, the popularity information 145-2 indicates thatcontent Y is now popular or is expected to be popular amongst viewers.To accommodate the change in content consumption demands as indicated bythe popularity information 145-2, the content management resource 151updates the content stored in the second repository 182 to reflect thenew demand for content.

For example, assume that a first title of content X stored in the secondrepository 182 at or around time T1 eventually becomes less popular thana second title of content Y (such as around time T2) as specified by thepopularity information 145-2. In such an instance, the contentmanagement resource 115 initiates replacement of the first title ofcontent X in the second repository 182 with the more popular secondtitle of content Y, increasing efficiency of delivering content from themulti-tier content distribution system 120.

In this manner, over time, the content management resource 151constantly updates the content stored in repository 182, reducinginstances in which the content packager resource 143 must be accessed toprocess and distribute requested content not available for retrievalfrom repository 181 and repository 182.

FIG. 3 is a more specific example diagram illustrating a functionalblock diagram of a multi-tier content distribution system and distributeof content according to embodiments herein.

As shown, the user 108 operates communication device 150-1 to retrievethe content guide 510 (content guide information, listing of titles ofavailable content, etc.) from server resource 520. In one embodiment,resource 365 produces the content guide 510 to include appropriate URLs(Uniform Resource Locators, network addresses, etc.) from which toretrieve different content from the multi-tier content distributionsystem 120.

In response to receiving input for selection of a particular title ofcontent from the content guide 510 using the appropriate URL assigned tothe requested content, the communication device 150-1 forwards therequest for content over network 190 to the content distributionresource 141. As previously discussed, if the content is available fromrepository 181 the content distribution resource 141 forwards theappropriate content over network 190 to the communication device 150-1for playback to the user 108.

If not, the content distribution resource 141 forwards the request forcontent to the mid-tier content server 142. The mid-server 142 checkswhether the requested content is stored in repository 182. If not, themid-tier content server 142 checks whether the requested content isstored in its local cache. If not, the mid-tier content server 142forwards the respective requests for content to the content packagerresource 143 (video on demand packager). The content packager resource143 obtains the appropriate segments of content and correspondingmanifest from repository 183 and forwards it to the respectivecommunication device 150-1 in a manner as previously discussed.

Further, as previously discussed, the multi-tier content distributionsystem 120 includes content management resource 151. As shown in FIG. 3,the content management resource 151 receives popularity information145-1 or other suitable information from the resource 365(video-on-demand workflow processor). The content management resource151 uses the popularity information 145-1 to manage which content isstored in repository 181 and/or repository 182.

In this example embodiment, the content management resource 151identifies content available from the content packager resource 143 thatis to be segmented and stored in repository 182. In addition to storingsegmented portions of the identified content, the content managementresource 151 initiates generation and storage of a respective manifestfile for each title of content stored in repository 182.

As previously discussed, the content management resource 151 deletes andupdates the content stored in repository 182 based upon identificationof new content that is expected to be popular or that is identifiedalready known as being popular.

FIG. 4 is an example timing diagram illustrating operations ofretrieving content from the multi-tier content distribution system anddistribute to multiple requesting communication devices according toembodiments herein.

As shown in timing diagram 400, via communications 405, the resource 365(video-on demand workflow) writes content that is to be available asvideo-on-demand to repository 183.

Via communications 410, the resource 365 (video-on-demand workflow)registers URLs (or other suitable pointers) with the server resource520.

Via communications 420, the resource 365 notifies content managementresource 151 of popular content via popularity information 145.

Via communications 425, the content management resource 151 requests theidentified popular content from content packager resource 143.

Via communications 430, the content manager resource 151 initiatesstorage of the segments of content and corresponding manifest file foreach identified popular title of content to be stored in repository 182.

Via communications 440, the user 108 operating communication device150-1 requests retrieval of a content guide indicating availability ofthe different titles of content.

Via communications 450, the server resource 520 forwards content guideinformation to the communication device 150-1. In one embodiment, thecontent guide information indicates a network address from which toretrieve different titles of content.

Via communications 460, the communication device 150-1 forwards arespective request for content to the content distribution resource 141.If the requested content is locally available such as in a respectivecache or repository 181, the content distribution resource 141 servesthe content to the communication device 150-1.

If the content is not locally available such as from repository 181, thecontent distribution resource 141 transmits communications 470 to themid-tier content server 142 requesting the retrieval of content. Themid-tier content server 142 checks a respective network file system (theinformation in the repository 182 can be NFS mounted so that it appearslocal to mid-tier content server 141) to determine whether the requestedcontent is available from repository 182. If so, the mid-tier contentserver 142 retrieves the content from repository 182 and serves it tothe communication device 150-1 over network 190.

Alternatively, if the content is not available from the repository 182,the mid-tier content server 142 checks its local cache viacommunications 480 4 the requested content. If the requested content isavailable from its local cache, the mid-tier content server 142 servesthe requested content from the local cache to communication device150-1.

However, if the local cache does not store the requested content, themid-tier content server 142 generates communications 490 to retrieve therequested content from the content packager resource 143. In such aninstance, the content packager resource 143 provides appropriatesegments of content corresponding content access information fordelivery to the communication device 150-1 in a manner as previouslydiscussed.

As a background operation, also as previously discussed, the contentmanagement resource 151 constantly updates the content stored inrepository 182 to provide more efficient delivery of content to multiplecommunication devices 150.

For example, via communications 492, the resource 365 notifies contentmanagement resource 151 of the popular titles of content in which tostore in the repository 182.

In accordance with the popularity information 145, via furthercommunications 494, the content management resource 151 modifies and/ordeletes the content stored in repository 182. In one embodiment, asshown by update process 496, the content management resource 151 isnotified of newly popular content.

Via communications 498, the content manager resource 151 initiatesdeletion of old content in repository 182 4 storage in favor of newlypopular content.

FIG. 5 is an example block diagram of a computer system for implementingany of the operations as discussed herein according to embodimentsherein.

Any of the resources (e.g., communication devices 150, contentdistribution resource 141, mid-tier content server 142, content packagerresource 143, content management resource 151, etc.) can be configuredto include a processor and executable instructions to carry out thedifferent operations as discussed herein.

As shown, computer system 550 of the present example can include aninterconnect 511 that couples computer readable storage media 512 suchas a non-transitory type of media (i.e., any type of hardware storagemedium) in which digital information can be stored and retrieved, aprocessor 513, I/O interface 514, and a communications interface 517.I/O interface 514 supports connectivity to one or more repositories.

Computer readable storage medium 512 can be any hardware storage devicesuch as memory, optical storage, hard drive, floppy disk, etc. In oneembodiment, the computer readable storage medium 512 stores instructionsand/or data.

As shown, computer readable storage media 512 can be encoded withcontent management application 140-1 (e.g., including instructions) tocarry out any of the operations as discussed herein.

During operation of one embodiment, processor 513 accesses computerreadable storage media 512 via the use of interconnect 511 in order tolaunch, run, execute, interpret or otherwise perform the instructions incontent management application 140-1 stored on computer readable storagemedium 512. Execution of the content management application 140-1produces content management process 140-2 to carry out any of theoperations and/or processes as discussed herein.

Those skilled in the art will understand that the computer system 550can include other processes and/or software and hardware components,such as an operating system that controls allocation and use of hardwareresources to content management application 140-1.

In accordance with different embodiments, note that computer system maybe or included in any of various types of devices, including, but notlimited to, a mobile computer, a personal computer system, a wirelessdevice, base station, phone device, desktop computer, laptop, notebook,netbook computer, mainframe computer system, handheld computer,workstation, network computer, application server, storage device, aconsumer electronics device such as a camera, camcorder, set top box,mobile device, video game console, handheld video game device, aperipheral device such as a switch, modem, router, set-top box, contentmanagement device, handheld remote control device, any type of computingor electronic device, etc. The computer system 650 may reside at anylocation or can be included in any suitable resource in any networkenvironment to implement functionality as discussed herein.

Functionality supported by the different resources will now be discussedvia flowcharts in FIGS. 6-8. Note that the steps in the flowcharts belowcan be executed in any suitable order.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart 600 illustrating an example method according toembodiments herein. Note that there will be some overlap with respect toconcepts as discussed above.

In processing operation 610, the content management resource 151receives popularity information 145-2 indicating content to retrieve andstore in repository 182 (such as a first supplemental repository withrespect to the repository 181). The repository 182 is a backup resourcefrom which to retrieve and distribute content not stored in repository181 (a primary repository of multi-tier content distribution system120).

In processing operation 620, as specified by the popularity information145-1, the content management resource 151 communicates with contentpackager resource 143 (another content management resource in multi-tiercontent distribution system 120) to retrieve a copy of the content Y.

In processing operation 630, the content management resource 151 storesthe retrieved copy of the content Y in the repository 182 (firstsupplemental repository) for subsequent distribution to user subscribersoperating respective communication devices 150.

In processing operation 640, in accordance with an access order ofdistributing the content to the communication devices and correspondingsubscribers, the multi-tier content distribution system 120 providesaccess to the copy of content Y from the repository 182 (firstsupplemental repository with respect to repository 182).

FIG. 7 is a flowchart 700 illustrating an example method according toembodiments herein. Note that there will be some overlap with respect toconcepts as discussed above.

In processing operation 710, the multi-tier content distribution system120 stores first content such as content A, B, C, D, . . . in a firstrepository 181 for distribution.

In processing operation 720, multi-tier content distribution system 120stores second content such as content U, V, W, X, etc., in a secondrepository 182 for distribution. The second repository 182 is a backupstorage and distribution resource with respect to the first repository182.

In processing operation 730, the multi-tier content distribution system120 stores third content in a third repository 183. The third repository183 is a backup distribution resource with respect to the secondrepository 182.

In processing operation 740, the multi-tier content distribution system120 (and more specifically the content management resource 151)selectively populates the second repository 182 with updated content. Inone embodiment, as previously discussed, content stored in the secondrepository 182 includes selected portions of the content stored in thethird repository 183.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart 800 illustrating an example method according toembodiments herein. Note that there will be some overlap with respect toconcepts as discussed above.

In processing operation 810, the multi-tier content distribution system120 stores first content such as content A, B, C, D, . . . in a firstrepository 181 for distribution.

In processing operation 820, multi-tier content distribution system 120stores second content such as content U, V, W, X, etc., in a secondrepository 182 for distribution. The second repository 182 is a backupstorage and distribution resource with respect to the first repository182.

In processing operation 830, the multi-tier content distribution system120 stores third content in a third repository 183. The third repository183 is a backup distribution resource with respect to the secondrepository 182.

In processing operation 840, the content management resource 151receives popularity information 145-2 indicating content (such as titleof content Y) to retrieve and store in the second repository 182. Thepopularity information 145-2 indicates content that is currently notstored in the first repository 181 but is popularly consumed or isexpected to be popularly consumed amongst multiple subscribers (uses ofrespective communication devices 150) accessing the third repository 183in the multi-tiered content distribution system 120. The secondrepository 182 is a backup resource from which to distribute content notstored in the first repository 181.

In processing operation 850, as specified by the popularity information145-2, the content management resource 151 communicates with the contentpackager resource 143 (another content management resource) to retrievea copy of the content Y from the third repository 183.

In sub-processing operation 860 associated with processing operation850, the content management resource 151 replaces first title of contentask stored in the repository 182 with an updated title of content Yobtained from the third repository 183 in response to detecting that thesecond title of content 182 becomes more popularly retrieved amongstmultiple communication devices 150 than the first title of content X.

In processing operation 870, in accordance with an access order ofdistributing the content to the subscribers (i.e., users operatingcommunication devices 150), the multi-tier content distribution system120 provides access to the copy of content Y from the first supplementalrepository (i.e., repository 182).

In processing operation 880 associated with processing operation 870,the multi-tier content distribution system 120 attempts retrieval ofrequested content Y in accordance with a predefined order including afirst attempt to retrieve the requested content Y from the firstrepository 181 and, since the requested content Y is unavailable fromthe first repository 181, the multi-tier content distribution system 120attempts to retrieve the requested content from the second repository182. Since the requested content Y is available from the repository 182,the multi-tier content distribution system 120 initiates distribution ofthe requested content Y from the repository 182.

As previously discussed, note again that if the requested content isunavailable from both the first repository 181 and the second repository182, the multi-tier content distribution system 120 makes an additionalattempt to retrieve the requested content from the third repository 183.

In this manner, any number of repositories can be accessed to retrieveand distribute content to a requesting client.

Note again that techniques herein are well suited to facilitateefficient distribution of content from a multi-tier content distributionsystem to multiple client devices in the network environment. However,it should be noted that embodiments herein are not limited to use insuch applications and that the techniques discussed herein are wellsuited for other applications as well.

Based on the description set forth herein, numerous specific detailshave been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of claimedsubject matter. However, it will be understood by those skilled in theart that claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specificdetails. In other instances, methods, apparatuses, systems, etc., thatwould be known by one of ordinary skill have not been described indetail so as not to obscure claimed subject matter. Some portions of thedetailed description have been presented in terms of algorithms orsymbolic representations of operations on data bits or binary digitalsignals stored within a computing system memory, such as a computermemory. These algorithmic descriptions or representations are examplesof techniques used by those of ordinary skill in the data processingarts to convey the substance of their work to others skilled in the art.An algorithm as described herein, and generally, is considered to be aself-consistent sequence of operations or similar processing leading toa desired result. In this context, operations or processing involvephysical manipulation of physical quantities. Typically, although notnecessarily, such quantities may take the form of electrical or magneticsignals capable of being stored, transferred, combined, compared orotherwise manipulated. It has been convenient at times, principally forreasons of common usage, to refer to such signals as bits, data, values,elements, symbols, characters, terms, numbers, numerals or the like. Itshould be understood, however, that all of these and similar terms areto be associated with appropriate physical quantities and are merelyconvenient labels. Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparentfrom the following discussion, it is appreciated that throughout thisspecification discussions utilizing terms such as “processing,”“computing,” “calculating,” “determining” or the like refer to actionsor processes of a computing platform, such as a computer or a similarelectronic computing device, that manipulates or transforms datarepresented as physical electronic or magnetic quantities withinmemories, registers, or other information storage devices, transmissiondevices, or display devices of the computing platform.

While this invention has been particularly shown and described withreferences to preferred embodiments thereof, it will be understood bythose skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may bemade therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentapplication as defined by the appended claims. Such variations areintended to be covered by the scope of this present application. Assuch, the foregoing description of embodiments of the presentapplication is not intended to be limiting. Rather, any limitations tothe invention are presented in the following claims.

We claim:
 1. A multi-tier content distribution system comprising: afirst repository from which to distribute first content; a secondrepository from which to distribute second content, the secondrepository being a backup resource with respect to the first repository;a third repository from which to distribute third content, the thirdrepository being a backup resource with respect to the secondrepository; and a content management resource operable to selectivelypopulate the second repository with the second content, the secondcontent including portions of the third content stored in the thirdrepository.
 2. The multi-tier content distribution system as in claim 1,wherein the portions of the third content stored in the secondrepository are identified by the content management resource as popularcontent available for distribution from the third repository to multiplecommunication devices accessing the multi-tier content distributionsystem.
 3. The multi-tier content distribution system as in claim 1,wherein the third repository stores a copy of the first content storedin the first repository and a copy of the second content stored in thesecond repository.
 4. The multi-tier content distribution system as inclaim 1, wherein the content management resource is operable to initiateto pre-formatting of the portions of third content for on-demanddistribution to the multiple communication devices from the secondrepository.
 5. The multi-tier content distribution system as in claim 1,wherein the content management resource derives the second content fromthe portions of third content, the second content including multipleretrievable segments.
 6. The multi-tier content distribution system asin claim 5, wherein the content management resource produces contentaccess information indicating an order in which to sequentially retrievethe multiple retrievable segments.
 7. The multi-tier contentdistribution system as in claim 1, wherein the content managementresource is operable to update the second content stored in the secondrepository using the third content stored in the third repositorydepending on a trend of users retrieving portions of the third contentstored in the third repository.
 8. The multi-tier content distributionsystem as in claim 1 further comprising: first computer processorhardware, the first computer processor hardware providing access to thefirst content stored in the first repository, the first computerprocessor hardware operable to receive a request for content from acommunication device; second computer processor hardware, the secondcomputer processor hardware providing access to the second contentstored in the first repository, the second computer processor hardwareoperable to receive the request from the first computer processorhardware in response to the first computer processor hardware detectingthat the requested content is not available from the first repository;and third computer processor hardware, the third computer processorhardware providing access to the third content stored in the firstrepository, the third computer processor hardware operable to receivethe request from the second computer processor hardware in response tothe second computer processor hardware detecting that the requestedcontent is not available from the second repository.
 9. The multi-tiercontent distribution system as in claim 8, wherein the first content inthe first repository and second content in the second repository arepre-formatted for on-demand distribution; and wherein the third contentrequires formatting prior to distribution.
 10. The multi-tier contentdistribution system as in claim 8 further comprising: an access controlresource operable to attempt retrieval of requested content inaccordance with a predefined order in which the access control resourcefirst attempts to retrieve requested content from the first repositoryand, if the requested content is unavailable from the first repository,second attempts to retrieve the requested content from the secondrepository and, if the request content is unavailable from the secondrepository, third attempts to retrieve the requested content from thethird repository.
 11. The multi-tier content distribution system as inclaim 1, wherein the content management resource is operable to replacea first title of content stored in the second repository with a secondtitle of content stored in the third repository in response to detectingthat the second title of content becomes more popular than the firsttitle of content.
 12. In a multi-tier content distribution systemoperable to distribute content to communication devices in a network, amethod comprising: via computer processor hardware, performingoperations of: receiving popularity information indicating content toretrieve and store in a first supplemental repository, the firstsupplemental repository being a backup resource from which to distributecontent not stored in a primary repository; as specified by thepopularity information, communicating with a content management resourceto retrieve a copy of the content; and storing the retrieved copy of thecontent in the first supplemental repository for distribution tosubscribers; and in accordance with an access order of distributing thecontent to the subscribers, providing access to the copy of content fromthe first supplemental repository.
 13. The method as in claim 12,wherein the popularity information indicates content that is not storedin the primary repository but is popularly consumed amongst multiplesubscribers accessing the multi-tier content distribution system. 14.The method as in claim 12, wherein the popularity information indicatesthat the content that is popularly delivered from a content managementresource in the multi-tier content distribution system, the contentmanagement resource being a backup resource from which to distributecontent not available from the primary repository and the firstsupplemental repository.
 15. The method as in claim 14, wherein theaccess order indicates to first attempt delivery of the content from theprimary repository and, after a determination that the content is notavailable from the primary repository, second attempt delivery from thesupplemental repository.
 16. The method as in claim 15, wherein theaccess order indicates to attempt delivery from the backup resourceafter a determination that the content is not available from the primaryrepository or the first supplemental repository.
 17. The method as inclaim 12, wherein the first supplemental repository is one of multiplerepositories from which to attempt distribution of the content if thecontent is not available for distribution from the primary repositoryand the first supplemental repository.
 18. A method comprising: storingfirst content in a first repository for distribution; storing secondcontent in a second repository for distribution, the second repositorybeing a backup distribution resource with respect to the firstrepository; storing third content in a third repository, the thirdrepository being a backup distribution resource with respect to thesecond repository; and selectively populating the second repository withthe second content, the second content including selected portions ofthe third content stored in the third repository.
 19. The method as inclaim 18, wherein the selected portions of the third content stored inthe second repository are identified as popularly retrieved content fromthe third repository to multiple communication devices.
 20. The methodas in claim 18, wherein the third repository stores a copy of the firstcontent and a copy of the second content.
 21. The method as in claim 18further comprising: pre-formatting the portions of third content in thesecond repository for on-demand distribution from the second repositoryto multiple communication devices.
 22. The method as in claim 18 furthercomprising: deriving the second content from the portions of thirdcontent, the second content including multiple retrievable segments. 23.The method as in claim 18 further comprising: producing content accessinformation indicating an order in which to sequentially retrieve themultiple retrievable segments.
 24. The method as in claim 18 furthercomprising: updating the second content stored in the second repositoryusing the third content stored in the third repository depending on atrend of users retrieving portions of the third content stored in thethird repository.
 25. The method as in claim 18 further comprising:providing access to the first content stored in the first repository;receiving a request for content from a communication device; providingaccess to the second content stored in the first repository; receivingthe request from the first computer processor hardware in response tothe first computer processor hardware detecting that the requestedcontent is not available from the first repository; and providing accessto the third content stored in the first repository, the third computerprocessor hardware operable to receive the request from the secondcomputer processor hardware in response to the second computer processorhardware detecting that the requested content is not available from thesecond repository.
 26. The method as in claim 18 further comprising:pre-formatting the first content stored in the first repository and thesecond content stored for on-demand distribution; and wherein the thirdcontent requires formatting prior to distribution.
 27. The method as inclaim 26 further comprising: attempting retrieval of requested contentin accordance with a predefined order including a first attempt toretrieve the requested content from the first repository and, if therequested content is unavailable from the first repository, a secondattempt to retrieve the requested content from the second repositoryand, if the requested content is unavailable from the second repository,a third attempt to retrieve the requested content from the thirdrepository.
 28. The method as in claim 18 further comprising: replacinga first title of content stored in the second repository with a secondtitle of content stored in the third repository in response to detectingthat the second title of content becomes more popularly retrievedamongst multiple communication devices than the first title of content.29. Computer-readable storage hardware having instructions storedthereon, the instructions, when carried out by computer processorhardware, cause the computer processor hardware to: receive popularityinformation indicating content to retrieve and store in a firstsupplemental repository, the first supplemental repository being abackup resource from which to distribute content not stored in a primaryrepository; as specified by the popularity information, communicate witha content management resource to retrieve a copy of the content; andstore the retrieved copy of the content in the first supplementalrepository for distribution to subscribers; and in accordance with anaccess order of distributing the content to the subscribers, provideaccess to the copy of content from the first supplemental repository.